Article

Finland thrash USA to top group, hosts Denmark crash out

15 May 2018 22:58

There was disappointment for the home nation at the IIHF World Championships as Latvia pipped Denmark to the final play-off spot courtesy of a 1-0 win on Tuesday.

The hosts came into the clash occupying fourth spot in Group B, one place and one point above their opponents, but were consigned to an early exit after Andris Dzerins' solitary goal midway through the first period.

Latvia's last-eight opponents will be Sweden, who defeated Russia 3-1 to secure top spot in Group A.

Fourth place in that pool goes to Switzerland, who thumped France 5-1 to set up a clash against Finland, who needed a regulation-time victory over United States to usurp their opponents as Group B winners.

And they delivered in style, Sebastian Aho netting a hat-trick to inspire a 6-2 rout.

Canada qualify third from Group B following a 3-0 win over Germany and will face Russia, while USA are set for a showdown with Czech Republic.

Tuesday's other game saw Slovakia defeat pointless Belarus 7-4 - a result not enough to secure qualification due to Switzerland's success.